This exhibition celebrates one of the most enduring legacies of Charles Dickens's genius: the unforgettable characters he brought to life.

Oliver!

Despite innumerable theatrical productions of Dickens’s works, many in London theatres before the monthly parts of the novels had run their course, Oliver! was the first musical adaptation to become a stage hit. The show premiered in London’s West End in 1960 and on Broadway in 1963. In 1968 it was made into a film, directed by Carol Reed. Nominated for eleven Academy Awards, it won six, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Food Glorious Food

In the production number Food Glorious Food, the children of the workhouse fantasize about food as they line up to collect their gruel. When the boys have finished eating, Oliver, played by Mark Lester, asks for more.

Theatre Collection. Film Still from Columbia Pictures's Oliver!, 1968.

Boy for Sale

Oliver is immediately apprehended for his impertinent behavior and told to gather his belongings. Workhouse official Mr. Bumble walks Oliver through the streets and eventually sells him as an apprentice to the undertaker, Mr. Sowerby.

Theatre Collection. Film Still from Columbia Pictures's Oliver!, 1968.

Consider Yourself

Arriving in London after a week on the road, Oliver meets Jack Dawkins, the Artful Dodger, who invites him to join the gang of thieves with one of the film’s lavish production numbers.

Theatre Collection. Film Still from Columbia Pictures's Oliver!, 1968.

The Dodger and Fagin

In the musical, the evil Fagin of the novel has been transformed into a comic character, played to perfection by Ron Moody. Sixteen-year-old Jack Wild played the Artful Dodger. Both received Academy Award nominations for their performances.

Theatre Collection. Film Still from Columbia Pictures's Oliver!, 1968.

I'd Do Anything

After a lesson in picking pockets, the gang make fun of high society. In 2008, a BBC talent show called I’d Do Anything searched for a lead to play Nancy and three youths to take turns playing Oliver in the West End revival of the musical.

Theatre Collection. Film Still from Columbia Pictures's Oliver!, 1968.

My Name

Danny Sewell disperses the crowd at Three Cripples Tavern as the brutal criminal Bill Sikes in the Forrest Theatre’s 1965 production. The former light-heavyweight boxer had originated the role on the London stage.

Theatre Collection Publicity Still

Souvenir Program

The British musical, with script, music and lyrics by Lionel Bart, travelled to eleven cities across the United States before enjoying its successful run on Broadway. This souvenir program contains actor bios and photographs.